Rental Security Checklist

Security for rentals and tenants is critical when owning investment properties. Whether it’s security lights, alarms, motion sensor lights, locks, tenant screenings—there are plenty of options landlords have for ensuring the safety of their rental properties.

However, if you’re new to being a landlord, it might be difficult to know where to start with rental security.

Here’s a rental security checklist landlords can use to keep their property safe!

Types of Security for Homes

Before we get started, it’s important to know what type of security is available for homes, and how they’re divided very roughly into categories. The more informed you are, the easier it will be for you to make an informed decision about the type of security you’re looking for, and what will be a great fit for your tenants.

There are four main types of security systems that include:

Monitored security system
Unmonitored security system
Wireless security alarm system
Wired home security systems

It’s important to choose the home security system that’s best for you and your tenants. Each form of home security comes with its pros and cons, which need to be weighed up before choosing one.

However, if you’re extra interested in finding the best alarm for you, you may well want to look at a Honeywell alarm codes cheatsheet.

Gadgets Ideas for Your Rental Property

Gadgets can come in very handy. We’ve made a list of seven gadgets that may come in handy as you venture into the landlord business:

Security cameras
Doorbell cameras
Smart lighting
Alarms
Motion sensors
Fire and carbon monoxide sensors
Smart locks

All the gadgets mentioned above may need some installing; however, it’s worth it when it comes to the safety of tenants.

Creating the Checklist

Now, it’s time to create your checklist. Firstly, you’ll need to check what type of security you’d need in that area. Not all areas need the same kind of security because not all areas are the same.

Remember that while you are trying to beef up the security, you may want to ensure that you don’t overstep the line between privacy and intrusion. For example, if you’re a landlord installing a security system, ensure you don’t do anything illegal surveillance-wise.

Secondly, you would want to start researching options to upgrade your rental’s security systems.

Thirdly, you’ll want to look around for quotations and people willing to install the equipment for you, if you don’t want to set it up yourself. In the case of setting up an alarm, you should look for a good security company to handle any burglaries or emergencies.

You may also want to reach out to the tenant market and find out what kind of security tenants enjoy. This is to get a rough idea of what may and may not work, because you don’t want to be changing the security every time a new tenant arrives.

It’s best to begin your checklist by considering the bigger picture. Then gradually drill down into the smaller details. This is the best way to remain clear as you home in on the best-fit security.

Always remember that when starting off with a checklist, it’s best to build it like a jigsaw puzzle. From the outermost parts, and work your way into the detail. Slowly breaking things down will help to create a clearer picture.